November 2017

Weekly letters to my constituents

Caroline in Parliament

November 2017

November 17th 2017

I have been contacted by a number of constituents in the last few weeks regarding the proposed sale of some social properties by a significant social landlord in the area. The properties, which were transferred by Test Valley Borough Council nearly two decades ago, appear to be mainly in rural villages. I would like to reassure residents that I have requested a meeting with the housing association concerned and will raise this issue with them to ascertain what will be done to ensure no pressure is put on the current housing waiting list.

Last weekend was filled with poignant reminders of those we have lost in wars in order to preserve our democratic way of life. It is always heartening to see so many local people – of all ages – wearing poppies, donating to the Royal British Legion, and attending memorials across the constituency.

We are also reminded this week of the importance of the democracy so many made the ultimate sacrifice for. Many constituents will have seen the lively discourse in the House of Commons as we continue to debate amendments to the EU Withdrawal Bill and I support the robust debate which is so essential to a healthy modern democracy.

The Government has a clear vision for Brexit, which, as a Minister, I support and will continue to vote in favour of. Other colleagues have differing views and it is their right to express their opinions – and the opinions of their constituents – during these debates without fear of abuse on social media which has become so prevalent.

CAROLINE NOKES MP

November 10th 2017

I was fascinated to visit the new Thames Tideway scheme in London as part of my ministerial work this week. Some may know that a significant amount of overflowing sewage is released into the tidal River Thames each year and serious concern for decades has led to this 25 kilometre interception, storage and transfer tunnel being built up to 66 metres below the Thames to keep London clean. The tunnel will intercept sewage before it enters the river, which will help prevent pollution which can stay in the river for months at a time.

As I return to Romsey this week I look forward to joining hundreds of others to pay our respects and remember the fallen of all military conflicts for Armistice Day on Saturday and Remembrance Sunday. On Armistice Day I will be joining residents in my home village of Wellow to take part in the parade which increases in size each year, whilst on Sunday I will join hundreds of other residents in Romsey for the annual parade and service.

I feel an enormous sense of pride in the community I represent when I see so many people taking part in such an important series of events, particularly young people who continue to take an interest in the sacrifices made so that we can live in freedom. I know there will be so many more such memorials taking place in towns and villages throughout the constituency and it is always humbling to see the cenotaphs of every village standing tall above a sea of red poppies.